Nissan Qashqai – Funky Styling And Competitively Priced.
By Eye Magazine published 8 January, 2012 No Comments
For our car review this month the Nissan Qashqai was selected because despite its funky 4×4 styling it is competitively priced, resale values are strong and some impressive refinements and exceptional comfort add considerably to its appeal. The self-styled motor industry watchdog ‘What Car,’ in fact, claims that the Qashqai makes a brilliant family car because ‘it is roomy, comfortable, refined and affordable to run. The king-of-the-road driving position is another plus point, and standard equipment is good.’
Performance-wise the entry-level 1.6-litre petrol engine develops 115bhp and the 1.5-litre diesel 104bhp. The stronger 128bhp 1.6 diesel is better, and if you want more punch, there’s a 138bhp 2.0 petrol or a 148bhp 2.0 diesel that’s only available with an automatic gearbox. In all there are 25 different versions available so there is bound to be something that suits all your requirements.
Performance-wise the Qashqai’s chunky tyres and supple suspension means it floats serenely over poor surfaces at any speed, though there’s a bit of a body lean through bends. The lean, however, is progressive and the steering weighty and direct.
The Qashqai is in the Ford Focus price bracket and offers practicality more familiar with an MPV. The boot’s standard capacity is 410 litres, compared to the Ford Focus (385 litres) and Volkswagen Golf Plus (395 litres). It expands to 860 litres at window level and, with the rear seat down, a huge 1,513 litres. There is also a cooled glove box, which has enough room for 15 normal-sized cans of soft drinks. Space isn’t a problem for the taller passenger thanks to the high roofline and large amounts of leg-room. All-round visibility is good, while steering is light for tight parking.
The diesel versions are obviously the cheapest to run in the range with the 1.5- and 2-litre range averaging 52.3mpg and 40mpg respectively. The 2-litre model emits 184g/km of carbon dioxide meaning an annual tax bill of £165. The 2-litre petrol emits between 199 and 204g/km of carbon dioxide putting in tax band F resulting in a £205 contribution to the Government.
Safety factors are impressive with the Qashqai awarded the best ever EuroNCAP crash test rating when it received almost maximum points and five stars for adult occupancy. Safety features include front, side and curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic stability programme and hydraulic fade compensation (HFC) which provides sharp braking. The four-wheel drive system on the 2-litre models ensures more grip in slippery conditions.
The Qashqai offers hatchback size and cost and – on the 2-litre models – four-wheel drive capability. It’s a solid, inventive-looking car that offers entertaining performance, value for money and excellent safety. But it’s not a hot hatch or a hardcore off-roader and, with the petrol range, emissions are high. If you’re looking for something a bit different though, the Qashqai should be high up on your list.
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